Hydrodynamic Optimization of Disc Valve Parameters in Mortar Pumps Based on Mathematical Modeling

The research develops a comprehensive mathematical model of disc valve dynamics in reciprocating mortar pumps, addressing a gap in the existing literature: the absence of models that simultaneously integrate the Shvedov–Bingham rheological law, plunger kinematics, and confined-space hydrodynamics for non-Newtonian construction mortars. The governing equation for disc motion, based on Newton’s second law, accounts for three force components (frontal pressure, viscous friction in the annular gap, and yield-stress resistance) and is coupled with a volumetric continuity equation that links the instantaneous plunger velocity to the gap flow velocity. Numerical integration was performed using an adaptive Runge–Kutta–Merson method to ensure computational stability during critical events such as valve seating and depressurization. The model allowed identification of the “hydraulic lock” effect as the primary mechanism for closing lag and backflow loss. Parametric optimization over disc mass and lift height for a 50 mm seat diameter, operating with cement-sand mortar of 0.08–0.10 m mobility, allowed for evaluating rational values (the valve mass of 0.9 kg and the total lift height of 0.010–0.012 m), corresponding to a maximum volumetric efficiency of 92.3 % and a minimum backflow volume of approximately 0.8·10–4 m3 per cycle. These parameters provided a 3–5 % efficiency gain and a 15–20 % reduction in valve-closing delay compared to conventional, non-optimized designs. The proposed model is suitable for engineering design of slurry pump valve assemblies and for the development of intelligent pump control systems.